Textbook in PDF format
This text presents a wide variety of common types of models found in other mathematical modeling texts, as well as some new types. However, the models are presented in a very unique format. A typical section begins with a general description of the scenario being modeled. The model is then built using the appropriate mathematical tools. Then it is implemented and analyzed in Excel via step-by-step instructions. In the exercises, we ask students to modify or refine the existing model, analyze it further, or adapt it to similar scenarios.
Contents
What is Mathematical Modeling?
Proportionality and Geometric Similarity
Linear Algebra
Discrete Dynamical Systems
Differential Equations
Simulations
Linear Optimization
Nonlinear Optimization
Spreadsheet Basics